Editorial:

Taiwan's President, Tsai Ing-Wen, has just concluded her visit to the last two Central American countries still maintaining diplomatic ties with the island nation. Belize and Guatemala are now Taiwan's only remaining allies in the region, as other countries have switched their allegiance to China.

It is commendable that Belize has remained steadfast in its support for Taiwan, despite China's efforts to pressure countries to sever ties with the island. President Tsai has expressed gratitude for Belize's continued friendship and partnership, highlighting the results that have benefited both countries in the past 34 years.

It is disheartening, however, that other countries have chosen to switch their allegiances to China, despite Taiwan's shared values of democracy, freedom, human rights, and peace. China's aggressive tactics in poaching countries and advancing its territorial claims on Taiwan have put immense pressure on Taiwan's diplomatic efforts to participate in international organizations.

Taiwan needs all the friends it can get, and it is vital for democratic countries to stand in solidarity with Taiwan in the face of China's growing influence. The international community should not sacrifice shared values for short-term gains and must recognize Taiwan's contributions to the world as a responsible stakeholder.

President Tsai's visit to Belize and Guatemala highlights the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation in multiple areas and demonstrates that democracies help one another. The question remains, why are other countries changing allegiances to the benefit of China? It is time for democratic nations to stand together in support of Taiwan and resist China's attempts to undermine global democracy and stability.